Spanish league makes big global gains in viewers following its return post-lockdown.
LaLiga reports the global audience watching the league since the competition’s restart has grown by almost 50%.
Figures from Nielson Sports, for the first matchday, reveal figures for international viewing rose by more than 48%.
Certain territories were way above this – across Africa they rose by 72% and in India (where LaLiga is broadcast on Facebook) they grew by 72%.
In South Africa alone, viewing rose by 210%.
In Europe, the growth in viewers was by around 56%, with the highest increase (130%) registered in Belgium.
Meanwhile, at home, LaLiga notched up increased ratings. Official figures indicate an increase in Spanish viewers of around 12% during the first matchday compared to pre-pandemic.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas said: “At Liga we feel privileged to be able to take to the field again and we’re very happy to have the opportunity to offer live sports entertainment at a time when there are few events like this around the world. We’re grateful to all of the fans who’ve followed LaLiga for the restart, because we’ve all worked hard to offer them entertainment again.”
Oscar Mayo, LaLiga’s director of business, marketing and international development, added: “We knew fans around the world were keen to enjoy the excitement and entertainment we offer. Achieving a rise of almost 50% in our international audience is a reflection of the hard work put in by our international broadcasters, the clubs and the competition itself over these last few months.”